Apparatus and method for managing media content

ABSTRACT

A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a media server and parsing engine, 3 rd  party mobile aggregator, client servers, and a plurality of communication devices that are each associated with a user and a user profile. The media server can provide one or more of the plurality of communication devices with access to media content, with the access being provided at a time selected by the user. At least one of the one or more of the plurality of communication devices can transmit a critique of the media content. The media server can award points to the user based on performing the critique, and can transmit the critique and user information from the user profile to the client server. The media server can provide the at least one of the one or more of the plurality of communication devices with access to at least one of services or goods to be purchased with the points. The media server can redeem the points based on a purchase of the at least one of the services or goods using the points. Other embodiments such as the obtaining of end user preferences of content in a natural environment are disclosed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/800,934, filed Nov. 1, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/203,391, filed Jul. 6, 2016 which is divisionalof U.S. application Ser. No. 14/739,567, filed Jun. 15, 2015, which is acontinuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/518,229, filed Oct. 20,2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,060,045, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 11/927,838, filed Oct. 30, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No.8,898,690, the entireties of which are incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates generally to communication services andmore specifically to an apparatus and method for managing media content.

BACKGROUND

Media content, including music, movies, television programming,video-on-demand and video games, is becoming increasingly accessible tothe masses. Consumers can download or otherwise access media contentfrom media sources, such as music or movies from ITUNES® or programmingfrom a cable service provider. Distribution and/or accessability of themedia content can be based on a number of factors, including popularityof the content and hardware constraints of the media source. Forexample, a television station often desires to provide programming thatwill attract the most viewers so that it can maintain its advertisingrevenue. As another example, a cable service provider often desires toprovide access to a set of movies through video-on-demand that are mostpopular so that it can maintain its subscribers while reducing the costof storing unpopular movies. These are examples of how new media ischanging the way that the public interacts with content and creates afragmentation for sources of obtaining content.

The media sources, as well as advertisers, businesses associated withthe media content (e.g., retailers selling movie memorabilia, producersof the content itself) and other businesses, often desire to know theconsumers' opinions regarding the media content so that they can managetheir business accordingly. For example, a radio station often desiresto know that a particular song is not well liked so that they canminimize or eliminate the song from their programming to avoid listenerstuning to a different station. As another example, an advertising agencyor a business seeking advertising often desires an accurate assessmentof whether a television program is being watched by a large amount ofviewers so they can accurately assess the value of the advertising.

Contemporary methods of obtaining feedback with respect to mediacontent, including evaluations and audience numbers, are limited, andcan be costly and inaccurate. Focus groups are costly, and typicallyprovide for review of large numbers of media content in a sterileenvironment. Callout research involves receiving a phone call over yourhome telephone, and evaluating a portion of a song immediately,regardless if it matches your taste/preference for that genre of music.These research methods can be flawed for a number of reasons, includingthe lack of natural environment for the review of the media content.Additionally, audience demographics are often based on sampling that maynot accurately reflect the true audience due to a number of reasons,including the sample size or the sampling methodology.

A need therefore arises for effectively managing media content, and anapparatus and method for managing the media content. A further needarises for such an apparatus and method to include a record of audiencepreferences for likes and dislikes of the media content.

SUMMARY

The Summary is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.73, requiring asummary of the invention briefly indicating the nature and substance ofthe invention. It is submitted with the understanding that it will notbe used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a storage medium formanaging media content can include computer instructions for: providinga user of a communication device with limited access to media content,where the limited access is provided at a time selected by the user;receiving a critique of the media content from the user; awarding pointsto the user based on performing the critique; providing the critique toat least one of an originator and distributor associated with the mediacontent; providing access to at least one of services or goods to bepurchased with the points; and redeeming the points based on a purchaseof the at least one of the services or goods.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a media managementsystem can include a media server, and a client server, as well as aplurality of communication devices that are each associated with a userand a user profile. The media server can provide one or more of theplurality of communication devices with access to media content, withthe access being provided at a time selected by the user. At least oneof the one or more of the plurality of communication devices cantransmit a critique of the media content. The media server can awardpoints to the user based on performing the critique, and can transmitthe critique and user information from the user profile to the clientserver. The media server can provide the at least one of the one or moreof the plurality of communication devices with access to at least one ofservices or goods to be purchased with the points. The media server canredeem the points based on a purchase of the at least one of theservices or goods using the points.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for managingmedia content can include providing a user of a communication devicewith access to media content; obtaining a critique of the media contentfrom the user; awarding points to the user based on performing thecritique; providing the critique to a client associated with the mediacontent; providing access to at least one of services or goods to bepurchased with the points; and redeeming the points based on a purchaseby the user of the at least one of the services or goods.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for managingmedia content can include providing a user of a communication devicewith access to media content; obtaining a critique of the media contentfrom the user in real-time; and providing a client associated with themedia content with real-time access to the critique.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a communication system;

FIG. 2 depicts a graphical user interface for a consumer in thecommunication system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 depicts a graphical user interface for a content partner clientin the communication system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 depicts a graphical user interface for an administrator in thecommunication system of FIG. 1; and

FIGS. 5a through 5d depict an exemplary method operating in portions ofthe communication system of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a communication system 100employing communication devices 105 communicating by way of wirelessaccess points (WAPs) and/or wired infrastructure with othercommunication devices, servers, network elements and/or a network proxyor web server, which collectively operate in the communication system100. The communication devices 105 can be multimedia devices forcommunicating video, voice, text and/or data, as well as receivingmultimedia programming, data, text and/or voice. For example, thecommunication devices 105 can include lap top or desktop computers,cellular phones, PDAs, set top boxes, and/or other devices that cancommunicate one or more of video, voice and data signals to a user,subscriber and/or consumer. The communication devices 105 can includevarious components and combinations of components that provide for theabove-described communication, as well as other functions, such as,controllers, processors and memory. In one embodiment, the communicationdevices 105 can communicate in a multimode communication environmentthat can communicate via a number of modes of communication, includingwired and/or wireless communication, as well as pursuant to variousprotocols.

The communication system 100 can include a media proxy 110 having acommunications platform or interface 114 that utilizes common technologyfor communicating over an interface (e.g., an IP interface) with one ormore of the communication devices 105 and/or one or more client systemsor interfaces (“clients”) 120, such as through use of a network 130, thecellular network 145, and/or a WiFi network 150. The media proxy 110 canfurther comprise a memory 116 (such as a high capacity storage medium)embodied in this illustration as a database, and a server, processor orcontroller 118 that makes use of computing technology such as a desktopcomputer, or scalable server for controlling operations of the mediaproxy.

The media proxy 110 can include various components and techniques forthe processing and manipulation of data, including user data (e.g.,demographics, content critiques, preferences and so forth) and clientdata (e.g., content, service and/or product being provided, preferencesand so forth). The media proxy 110 can include a parsing engine 219 forprocessing of information provided by one or more of the communicationdevices 105, the clients 120, the content aggregator 222 and the contentpartner or provider interface 232. The parsing engine 219 can beutilized by media proxy 110 for transforming inputs into data structuresuitable for later processing. The parsing engine 219 can be applied tovarious inputs, such as user critiques of media content. The media proxy110 can also obtain and store keywords or other indicia associated witheach of the clients 120. For example, the media proxy 110 can obtain,store and present to a user of communication device 105 the categoryheadings used by a client 120 for storing various types of mediacontent. The media proxy 110 can store or otherwise collect data fromthe end user's device 105 and a full record/inventory of the mediaitself from the content partner interface 232. When combined, acollection of analysis can be associated, and actionable information canbe taken. The media proxy 110 can also be a pass through to reconcileredemption of reward points for goods/services provided by the contentpartner interface 232 and redeemable by the end user 105.

The clients 120 can be a software interface where the end user caninteract with the media results as expressed directly or via acommunication device 105. From here, an end user can view theiraccumulated points balance, view their media preferences and learn ofnew contests, media content and other events. The client interface 120can provide a mirror reflection of the end user's preferences anddesires, while the database 126 can communicate with the parsing engine219 to seek out areas that would be of interest to the end user 105,providing the appearance of a personalized content offering based onuser input from device 105. A communications platform or interface 124can utilize common technology for communicating with the media proxy110, such as through use of the network 130, the cellular network 145,and/or the WiFi network 150. The clients 120 can further have the memory126 (such as a high capacity storage medium) embodied in thisillustration as a database, and a server, processor or controller 128that makes use of computing technology such as a desktop computer, orscalable server for controlling operations of the client system.

The network 130 can be a packet-switched network, such as an InternetService Provider (ISP) network, and can be coupled to a network proxy(not shown), the cellular network 145, WiFi network 150, the media proxy110, the one or more clients 120, and/or network elements. The ISPnetwork 130 can utilize technology for transporting Internet traffic.Communications between the network proxy, the communication devices 105,the media proxy 110, the one or more clients 120 and other networkelements of the communication system 100 can conform to any number ofsignaling protocols such as a session initiation protocol (SIP), SS7, ora video communications protocol which combines video and voice over apacket-switched network, as well as cryptographic protocols, such astransport layer security (TLS) or secure sockets layer (SSL), to providesecure communications for data transfers.

The network proxy (not shown) can comprise a communications interfacethat utilizes common technology for communicating over an IP interfacewith the communication devices 105, the media proxy 110, the one or moreclients 120, the network 130, the cellular network 145, and/or the WiFinetwork 150. By way of the communications interface, the network proxycan direct by common means any of the foregoing network elements toestablish packet switched data, voice, and/or video connections betweencommunication devices 105, the media proxy 110 and the clients 120distributed throughout the communication system 100. The network proxycan include memory (such as a high capacity storage medium), and acontroller that makes use of computing technology such as a desktopcomputer, or scalable server for controlling operations of the networkproxy. The network proxy can operate as an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS)conforming in part to protocols defined by standards bodies such as 3GPP(Third Generation Partnership Protocol) and beyond.

Under the control of the network proxy, linked packet-switched andcircuit-switched technologies such as the cellular network 145, WiFinetwork 150 and the network 130, such as an ISP network, can communicatewith one another. A media gateway can be used and can conform to a mediagateway control protocol (MGCP) defined by work groups in the InternetEngineering Task Force (IETF) or by other means. This protocol canhandle signaling and session management needed during a multimediasession. The protocol defines a means of communication that convertsdata from the format required for a circuit-switched network to thatrequired for a packet-switched network. MGCP can therefore be used toset up, maintain, and terminate calls between multiple disparate networkelements of the communication system 100. A media gateway can thereforesupport hybrid communication environments for the communication devices105, including VoIP terminals.

A central office (not shown) can house common network switchingequipment for distributing local and long-distance telecommunicationservices supplied by network 130 to the communication devices 105.Telecommunication services of the central office can include traditionalPOTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) and broadband services such as HDTV,DSL, VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), IPTV (Internet ProtocolTelevision), Internet services, and so on. The communication system 100can utilize common computing and communications technologies to supportcircuit-switched and/or packet-switched communications.

The cellular network 145 can support voice and data services over anumber of access technologies such as GSM-GPRS, EDGE, CDMA-1X, UMTS,WiMAX, software defined radio (SDR), and other known and futuretechnologies, including Near Field Communications (NFC) and beyond. Thecellular network 145 and WiFi Network 150 can be coupled under afrequency-reuse plan for communicating over-the-air with othercommunication devices of the communication system, includingcommunication devices 105.

The content aggregator 222 can be subscribed or collect a feed, orotherwise observe media content preferences (e.g., newly released songs,movies, video games, etc.) or access the media content (e.g., a weblink). The aggregator 222 can provide the media content preferences atvarious intervals, including used-determined intervals. The contentaggregator 222 can have podcasting capabilities to automaticallydownload media files, such as MP3 recordings. The content partner 232can provide automatic download media, playback the media within theapplication interface, or synchronize media content for the interactionby the communication device 105 and or client interface 120. In oneembodiment, the content aggregator 222 can aggregate text-only feeds andalso distribute audio recordings and/or other binary content. Alongvarious data paths, the end user preferences and/or access to content,such as through a link to the media content stored in a media source,can be provided. The data can be provided in various formats andapproved for distribution to end user devices 105. A record of activityas contained within content aggregator 222 can be stored in the clientinterface 120 as a history of activity, and content provider 232 fordistribution and preference on an individual content basis.

The content aggregator 222 can have a communications platform orinterface 224 that utilizes common technology for communicating over aninterface (e.g., an IP interface or text messaging) with the media proxy110, such as through use of the network 130, the cellular network 145,and/or WiFi network 150. The content aggregator 222 can further have amemory 226 (such as a high capacity storage medium) embodied in thisillustration as a database, and a server or controller 228 that makesuse of computing technology such as a desktop computer, or scalableserver for controlling operations of the client system. The contentaggregator 222 can be a separate device or sub-system of thecommunication system 100, or can be contracted out by a 3^(rd) partysystem, such as comprising the media proxy 222, including sharing one ormore components with the media proxy. The content aggregator 222 can bea plurality of aggregators, such as aggregators based upon differentnetwork distribution types.

The content provider 232 can be one or more media sources and/or can beproxies that retrieve or access media content from other sources,including web-based searches. The content provider 232 can be used toprovide the communication devices 105, the media proxy 110 and/or theclients 120 with access to the media content, such as through streaming,progressive download or full download. Various data paths can beprovided for the media content and/or access to that content. Contentpartner interfaces 232 can be comprised of the sources for publicdistribution of content (e.g., radio, television, iTunes, etc.) and/orsources of originating content (e.g., media networks, record labels,movie houses, etc.). Storage of the content and/or its sources can becontained within database 236, which can influence whether the contenthas greater or lesser future distribution per the preferences originatedon the end user devices 105.

The content provider 232 can have a communications platform or interface234 that utilizes common technology for communicating over an interface(e.g., an IP interface) with the media proxy 110, such as through use ofthe network 130, the, the cellular network 145, and/or WiFi network 150.The content provider 232 can further have a memory 236 (such as a highcapacity storage medium) embodied in this illustration as a database,and a server or controller 238 that makes use of computing technologysuch as a desktop computer, or scalable server for controllingoperations of the client system. The content provider 232 can be aseparate device or sub-system of the communication system 100, or can beincorporated with other components of the communication system, such asbeing incorporated into a client 232, including sharing one or morecomponents with the client system. Communications between end userdevice 105, by way of content aggregator 222, and indicating apreference on the content stored in 236 can pass through the media proxy110 and parsing engine 219.

Other data can be provided between two or more of the communicationdevices 105, the media proxy 110, the clients 120, the contentaggregator 222 and the content provider 232. For example, data paths canprovide for the transmittal of audience data, such as informationcollected by the media proxy 110 that is associated with feedback by auser corresponding to a particular media content (e.g., a song, movie,advertised product) or the transmittal of client data, such asclient-sponsored activities, including concerts, contests or otherevents. In one embodiment, data paths can provide for the uploading ofplaylists by the client 120 from the media proxy 110, such as based upona collection of critiques or evaluations of various media content by theusers of communication devices 105. In another embodiment,communications originated via the client interface 120 can pass into themedia proxy 110 by way of a data path. Communications originated by enduser device 105 will pass into the media proxy 110 by way of the contentaggregator 222 and the path of 260. Communications can be in the form ofcontent preferences, accumulation and redemption of reward points and orany activities as allowed for interaction through the client interface120.

As another example, data paths can provide for the transmittal of useror consumer data, such as the demographics or other informationassociated with the user (e.g., age, sex, income and so forth that canbe maintained in a user profile), requests for feedback on media content(e.g., free one-time access to a song that the user can listen to at hisor her leisure and provide feedback to earn points), the individualfeedback by a user corresponding to a particular media content (e.g., alow-rated song that allows a radio station to adjust its programmingaccordingly), promotion of upcoming events corresponding to one or moreof the clients 120, or user interaction with the media proxy 110, suchas monitoring, redeeming or donating points awarded for media contentcritiques.

The user interaction with the media proxy 110 through use of thecommunication device 105 along the data paths can also includepopulating user playlists (e.g., with songs that the user has providedwith a favorable critique), purchasing particular media content (e.g.,for content that the user has provided with a favorable critique anddesires to subsequently view and/or listen to), purchasing other goodsor services (e.g., concert tickets, hard goods and so forth), bloggingor otherwise communicating with other users (e.g., other users that haveprovided critiques similar to the users), and/or participating incontests or other events (e.g., an auction that accepts the user'spoints as payment or a media content-related quiz show that awardspoints). Contests, events, and so forth can be based on the availabilityand participation by the content partners who make their presence knownon client interface 120 via content partner interface 232. The contestsmay or may not have any connection to the content that is beingdistributed to the end user for their reaction through the contentaggregator 222. They can be instead, a secondary program solely based onproviding a new means of distribution (e.g., live) and allowing and/orrewarding access to such an experience through their normal interactionwith the media proxy 110.

Data paths, such as through use of device 280, can be used fororiginating various media content directly from the content provider 232towards the user of the communication device 105, including from theclient 120 where the content provider is associated with the client.Data paths can also be used for providing the various media contentindirectly from the content provider 232 to the user of thecommunication device 105, such as where the media proxy 120 stores themedia content or otherwise provides the access thereto.

Communication between two or more of the devices 105, the contentpartner interface 232, the media proxy 110, the content aggregator 222and the client interface 120 can be achieved by other means, includingother networks 155, such as a virtual private network. Similarly, otherconnection points or techniques 265 can be used for providing data flowbetween the content partner interface 232 and the content aggregator222.

Referring to FIG. 2, a graphical user interface (GUI) 300 is shown for auser of a communication device 105 and represented as the clientinterface 120, which in this exemplary embodiment is a lap top computerproviding a web portal. GUI 300 can present a content push tool bar 325that allows a user to navigate through new information, userinformation, and communication with other users. GUI 300 can alsopresent a content pull toolbar 350 that allows a user to navigatethrough favorite media sources, playlists, points, and activities basedon usage and preferences. Pull content can include ways to providepersonalization of end user details, a way to initiate finding friendsand to preference content distribution (e.g., TV & radio stations). Thepush content can include receiving feedback on activities, such asplaylist creations based on likes/dislikes recorded via the contentaggregator 222, information on new content that is similar to preferredlikes, accumulation of points/rewards for redemption and updates onactivities, such as concerts, auctions, and so forth for end userparticipation.

Referring to FIG. 3, a graphical user interface (GUI) 400 is shown for acontent partner interface 232, which in this exemplary embodiment isutilizing a lap top computer providing a web portal. GUI 400 can presenta content pull tool bar 425 that allows the content originator ordistributor 232 to navigate through playlist monitoring via real-timeactivity associated with the client and observing one or more users orconsumers and pull reporting. GUI 400 can also present a content pushtoolbar 450 that allows a content originator and/or distributor toinitiate new keywords for the particular user of the communicationdevice, and offer new media content, and contests/activities forinteraction. The toolbar 450 can also allow for navigation throughactivities including reporting, descriptions of the activities,descriptions of new activities and merchandising. The toolbar 425 canadditionally allow for navigation through identifiers of usersassociated with the communication devices 105 (e.g., names, addressesand so forth) that can include reporting and sending messages.

Referring to FIG. 4, a graphical user interface (GUI) 500 is shown foran administrator of media proxy 110, which in this exemplary embodimentis utilizing a lap top computer providing a web portal. GUI 500 canpresent a content push tool bar 525 that allows the administrator tonavigate through client billing and the proxy database. GUI 500 can alsopresent a content pull toolbar 550 that allows a user to navigatethrough identifiers of the communication devices 105 (e.g., short codes)that can include reporting, description of associated databases,description of codes and description of new codes, and identifiers ofclients that can include reporting, description of associated databases,description of accounts and description of new clients. The toolbar 550can also allow for navigation through activities including reporting,descriptions of associated databases, descriptions of the activities,and descriptions of new activities. The toolbar 450 can additionallyallow for navigation through identifiers of users associated with thecommunication devices 105 (e.g., names, addresses and so forth) that caninclude reporting, description of associated databases, description ofaccounts and description of new users. FIG. 500 shows an administrativefunction that can view all content communicating throughout the mediaproxy 100 with limited interaction. The main function is to control thebusiness model of the media proxy 110, as well as control theinteraction of the content originators/distributors 232 and shut down anend user 105 due to excessive use/abuse.

FIGS. 5a through 5d depict an exemplary method 600 utilizing acommunication device 105 (e.g., a PDA, consumer device, etc.), andoperating in portions of the communication system 100. In FIG. 5a , auser can send a text message using a predefined short code to downloador otherwise access/interact with media content, such as provide a songpreference, suggest a song for airtime, or receive an MP3 of the songfor review. The request for the media content can be in response to amessage sent from the media proxy 110 or can be initiated by the contentdistributor/originator, or by the end user such as in response tohearing a portion of the song on the radio or reading about a newlyreleased song in a magazine. In FIG. 5b , the user can play the song atthe time and place he or she desires to listen to and review the song.In FIG. 5c , the user can send a message to the media proxy 110 thatincludes the critique or review of the song. For example, the critiquecan be a simple like or dislike that is selected from a selectionpresented on the communication device 105 or is typed into the textmessage. Other critiques can also be provided, such as ratings on ascale or a written evaluation. In response to the review or critique ofthe media content, the user of the communication device 105 is awardedpoints. In FIG. 5d , the user can utilize those points, such as biddingfor concert tickets during an auction.

Additional data flow can occur as required by the content aggregator 222per the guidelines outlined by the Mobile Marketing Association. Dataflow can vary based on the needs of the content creator/distributor 232and what they are trying to accomplish with the end user 105.

The embodiments described herein can provide for real-time or nearreal-time data flow between the various entities, such as the users,distributors and/or originators. For example, a user can listen to aparticular media content and then provide feedback at his or herconvenience, which includes immediately or at a later time. This canallow a user to have real-time access to the media content and real-timeaccess to providing the feedback or critiques of the media content. Thereal-time access can extend to the originator, distributor or the mediaproxy 110 for receiving and reviewing the critiques of the mediacontent.

The embodiments described herein allow a user, client or other entity tofind out what song or show is currently being played. For example, auser can send a text message or other signal requesting identificationinformation for the media content that is currently being played. Theidentification information can be provided in real-time or nearreal-time. In another embodiment, a user, client or other entity canobtain identification information for previously played media content.For example, a user can send a text message or other signal to mediaproxy 110 requesting identification information for a song that wasplayed ten minutes ago. This allows users who do not have immediateaccess to a communication device to know what media content has beenplayed, such as if they heard it from someone else's communicationdevice. The time period and the number of media contents identified canvary for the identification information provided. In yet anotherembodiment, a user can purchase media content, such as songs or movies,directly from a play list associated with a content provider. Theprovider, such as a TV station, can have restrictions for selling thecontent, such as age-based ratings.

Upon reviewing the aforementioned embodiments, it would be evident to anartisan with ordinary skill in the art that said embodiments can bemodified, reduced, or enhanced without departing from the scope andspirit of the claims described below. For example, the contentpartner/distributor can be charged a fee with the option for premiumactivities for the end user as well. In one embodiment, the fee can beadjusted (e.g., reduced or eliminated) based upon the amount ofparticipation in critiques, activities or other data generatingactivity. The media proxy 110 can monitor other user activity togenerate data for clients. For example, links to merchandising can beprovided and user preference data can be obtained based upon accessingthose links or purchases made from the websites associated with thelinks (e.g., data transmitted from the website confirming a purchase wasmade). The requests for critiques can be directed to particular usersbased upon information in their user profiles.

In another embodiment, embedded signals can be provided in the mediacontent as a trigger for the user. For example, a communication device105 can detect an embedded signal in a song which triggers a request forfeedback that is generated by the device 105.

These are but a few examples of modifications that can be applied to thepresent disclosure without departing from the scope of the claims.Accordingly, the reader is directed to the claims section for a fullerunderstanding of the breadth and scope of the present disclosure.

In another embodiment not shown, the communication system 100 of FIG. 1can employ an IPTV broadcast media architecture, including at least onesuper head office server (SHS), one or more video head servers (VHS) andone or more video head offices (VHOs). The IPTV broadcast mediaarchitecture can be overlaid or operably coupled with communicationsystem 100 as another representative embodiment of communication system100. The SHS can receive national media programs from satellite and/ormedia servers from service providers of multimedia broadcast channels,and can forward IP packets associated with the media content to the VHSvia a network of VHOs according to a common multicast communicationmethod. The VHS can then distribute multimedia broadcast programs to amedia receiver, such as through set-top boxes associated withtelevisions located in homes. Unicast traffic can also be exchangedbetween the media receivers and subsystems of the IPTV media system forservices, such as video-on-demand (VoD).

In another embodiment not shown, the communication system 100 of FIG. 1can employ a IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) network architecture. The IMSnetwork architecture can be overlaid or operably coupled withcommunication system 100 as another representative embodiment ofcommunication system 100. The IMS network architecture can include aHome Subscriber Server (HSS), a tElephone NUmber Mapping (ENUM) server,and network elements of an IMS network. The IMS network can be coupledto IMS compliant communication devices (CD) or a Public SwitchedTelephone Network (PSTN) CD using a Media Gateway Control Function(MGCF) that connects the call through a common PSTN network. The CDs canbe fixed, mobile, wireless and/or wired devices.

The present disclosure contemplates the use of a machine in the form ofa computer system within which a set of instructions, when executed, maycause the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologiesdiscussed above. In some embodiments, the machine can operate as astandalone device. In some embodiments, the machine may be connected(e.g., using a network) to other machines. In a networked deployment,the machine may operate in the capacity of a server or a client usermachine in server-client user network environment, or as a peer machinein a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment.

The machine can comprise a server computer, a client user computer, apersonal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a laptop computer, a desktopcomputer, a control system, a network router, switch or bridge, or anymachine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential orotherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. It will beunderstood that a device of the present disclosure can include broadlyany electronic device that provides voice, video or data communication.Further, while a single machine is illustrated, the term “machine” shallalso be taken to include any collection of machines that individually orjointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform anyone or more of the methodologies discussed herein.

The computer system can include a processor (e.g., a central processingunit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU, or both), a main memory anda static memory, which communicate with each other via a bus. Thecomputer system can further include a video display unit (e.g., a liquidcrystal display (LCD), a flat panel, a solid state display, or a cathoderay tube (CRT)). The computer system can include an input device (e.g.,a keyboard), a cursor control device (e.g., a mouse), a mass storagemedium, a signal generation device (e.g., a speaker or remote control)and a network interface device.

The mass storage medium can include a computer-readable storage mediumon which is stored one or more sets of instructions (e.g., software)embodying any one or more of the methodologies or functions describedherein, including those methods illustrated above. The computer-readablestorage medium can be an electromechanical medium such as a common diskdrive, or a mass storage medium with no moving parts such as Flash orlike non-volatile memories. The instructions can also reside, completelyor at least partially, within the main memory, the static memory, and/orwithin the processor during execution thereof by the computer system.The main memory and the processor also may constitute computer-readablestorage media.

Dedicated hardware implementations including, but not limited to,application specific integrated circuits, programmable logic arrays andother hardware devices can likewise be constructed to implement themethods described herein. Applications that may include the apparatusand systems of various embodiments broadly include a variety ofelectronic and computer systems. Some embodiments implement functions intwo or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices withrelated control and data signals communicated between and through themodules, or as portions of an application-specific integrated circuit.Thus, the example system is applicable to software, firmware, andhardware implementations.

In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, themethods described herein are intended for operation as software programsrunning on a computer processor. Furthermore, software implementationscan include, but not limited to, distributed processing orcomponent/object distributed processing, parallel processing, or virtualmachine processing can also be constructed to implement the methodsdescribed herein.

The present disclosure also contemplates a machine readable mediumcontaining instructions, or that which receives and executesinstructions from a propagated signal so that a device connected to anetwork environment can send or receive voice, video or data, and tocommunicate over the network using the instructions. The instructionscan further be transmitted or received over a network via the networkinterface device. While the computer-readable storage medium isdescribed in an exemplary embodiment to be a single medium, the term“computer-readable storage medium” should be taken to include a singlemedium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database,and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets ofinstructions. The term “computer-readable storage medium” shall also betaken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding orcarrying a set of instructions for execution by the machine and thatcause the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies of thepresent disclosure. The term “computer-readable storage medium” shallaccordingly be taken to include, but not be limited to: solid-statememories such as a memory card or other package that houses one or moreread-only (non-volatile) memories, random access memories, or otherre-writable (volatile) memories; magneto-optical or optical medium suchas a disk or tape; and carrier wave signals such as a signal embodyingcomputer instructions in a transmission medium; and/or a digital fileattachment to e-mail or other self-contained information archive or setof archives is considered a distribution medium equivalent to a tangiblestorage medium. Accordingly, the disclosure is considered to include anyone or more of a computer-readable storage medium or a distributionmedium, as listed herein and including art-recognized equivalents andsuccessor media, in which the software implementations herein arestored.

Although the present specification describes components and functionsimplemented in the embodiments with reference to particular standardsand protocols, the disclosure is not limited to such standards andprotocols. Each of the standards for Internet and other packet switchednetwork transmission (e.g., TCP/IP, UDP/IP, HTML, HTTP) representexamples of the state of the art. Such standards are periodicallysuperseded by faster or more efficient equivalents having essentiallythe same functions. Accordingly, replacement standards and protocolshaving the same functions are considered equivalents.

The illustrations of embodiments described herein are intended toprovide a general understanding of the structure of various embodiments,and they are not intended to serve as a complete description of all theelements and features of apparatus and systems that might make use ofthe structures described herein. Many other embodiments will be apparentto those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. Otherembodiments may be utilized and derived therefrom, such that structuraland logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing fromthe scope of this disclosure. Figures are also merely representationaland may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions thereof may beexaggerated, while others may be minimized. Accordingly, thespecification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative ratherthan a restrictive sense.

Such embodiments of the inventive subject matter may be referred toherein, individually and/or collectively, by the term “invention” merelyfor convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope ofthis application to any single invention or inventive concept if morethan one is in fact disclosed. Thus, although specific embodiments havebeen illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that anyarrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substitutedfor the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to coverany and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments.Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments notspecifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in theart upon reviewing the above description.

The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b), requiring an abstract that will allow the reader to quicklyascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted withthe understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit thescope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing DetailedDescription, it can be seen that various features are grouped togetherin a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure.This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting anintention that the claimed embodiments require more features than areexpressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claimsreflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of asingle disclosed embodiment. Thus the following claims are herebyincorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing onits own as a separately claimed subject matter.

What is claimed is:
 1. A storage medium for managing media content,comprising computer instructions for: providing a user of acommunication device with limited access to media content, the limitedaccess being provided at a time selected by the user; receiving acritique of the media content from the user; awarding points to the userbased on performing the critique; providing the critique to at least oneof an originator or distributor associated with the media content;providing access to at least one of services or goods to be purchasedwith the points; and redeeming the points based on a purchase of the atleast one of the services or goods.
 2. The storage medium of claim 1,further comprising computer instructions for: providing a request forthe critique of the media content, the request being based at least inpart on a user profile associated with the user; and providing thelimited access to the media content in response to the user acceptingthe request.
 3. The storage medium of claim 1, wherein the at least oneof the originator or distributor is a media provider and has a playlistthat includes the media content, and wherein the playlist is adjustedbased at least in part on the critique.
 4. The storage medium of claim1, further comprising computer instructions for providing the user ofthe communication device with unlimited access to the media content inresponse to the user requesting purchase of the media content.
 5. Thestorage medium of claim 2, further comprising computer instructions forproviding user information from the user profile to the originator ordistributor.
 6. The storage medium of claim 1, further comprisingcomputer instructions for obtaining and storing keywords associated withthe at least one of the originator or distributor and presenting thekeywords to the user.
 7. The storage medium of claim 1, wherein aplaylist of the user is updated based on the critique.
 8. A mediamanagement system comprising: a media server; a client server; and aplurality of communication devices that are each associated with a userand a user profile, wherein the media server provides one or more of theplurality of communication devices with access to media content, theaccess being provided at a time selected by the user, wherein at leastone of the one or more of the plurality of communication devicestransmits a critique of the media content, wherein the media serverawards points to the user based on performing the critique, wherein themedia server transmits the critique and user information from the userprofile to the client server, wherein the media server provides the atleast one of the one or more of the plurality of communication deviceswith access to at least one of services or goods to be purchased withthe points, and wherein the media server redeems the points based on apurchase of the at least one of the services or goods using the points.9. The system of claim 8, wherein the media server transmits a requestfor the critique of the media content to at least a portion of theplurality of communication devices, the request being based at least inpart on the user profile associated with each of the plurality ofcommunication devices, and wherein the media server provides the accessto the media content in response to the user accepting the request. 10.The system of claim 8, further comprising at least one of an originatorand distributor associated with the media content, wherein the clientserver is associated with the at least one of an originator anddistributor, wherein the client server maintains a playlist thatincludes the media content, and wherein the playlist is adjusted basedat least in part on the critique.
 11. The system of claim 8, wherein thecritique is a plurality of critiques, and wherein the media serverstores the plurality of critiques and transmits the plurality ofcritiques to the client when a desired sampling size is reached.
 12. Thesystem of claim 8, wherein the media server awards the user with otherpoints based on participation in activities managed by the media server.13. The system of claim 8, wherein the media server obtains and storeskeywords associated with the client server and transmits the keywords tothe user.
 14. The system of claim 8, wherein a playlist of the at leastone of the one or more of the plurality of communication devicestransmitting the critique is updated based on the critique.
 15. A methodfor managing media content, the method comprising: providing a user of acommunication device with access to media content; obtaining a critiqueof the media content from the user; awarding points to the user based onperforming the critique; providing the critique to a client associatedwith the media content; providing access to at least one of services orgoods to be purchased with the points; and redeeming the points based ona purchase by the user of the at least one of the services or goods. 16.The method of claim 15, further comprising awarding other points basedon user participation in activities associated managed by a mediaserver.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the activities are at leastone of contests and auctions.
 18. The method of claim 15, furtherproviding real time updates of accrual of the points.
 19. The method ofclaim 15, further comprising: providing the user with a request for thecritique of the media content, the request being based at least in parton a user profile associated with the user; and providing the access tothe media content in response to the user accepting the request.
 20. Themethod of claim 15, further comprising adjusting a playlist of at leastone of the client or the user based at least in part on the critique.21. The method of claim 19, further comprising providing userinformation from the user profile to the client.
 22. A method formanaging media content, the method comprising: providing a user of acommunication device with access to media content; obtaining a critiqueof the media content from the user in real-time; and providing a clientassociated with the media content with real-time access to the critique.23. The method of claim 22, further comprising: awarding points to theuser based on performing the critique; providing access to at least oneof services or goods to be purchased with the points; and redeeming thepoints based on a purchase by the user of the at least one of theservices or goods.
 24. The method of claim 22, further comprising:providing a user with identification information associated with mediacontent that is at least one of currently being presented or previouslypresented.
 25. The method of claim 22, further comprising: selling themedia content from a distributor to the user, wherein the media contentis selected by the user from a play list of the distributor.